As Nigeria continues to mourn the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari, veteran Nigerian rapper and activist, Eedris Abdulkareem, has stirred public conversation with a thought-provoking social media post that has resonated across the country.
Taking to his Instagram page on Tuesday, the outspoken artiste posted a striking quote:
“If you want sympathy in death, then you must show empathy when alive. Your legacies after life are consequences of your deeds.”
Though he did not mention any names, the timing and tone of the post—just days after the announcement of Buhari’s death in a London hospital—have led many Nigerians to link the message directly to the late president’s controversial legacy.
Mixed Reactions
Eedris Abdulkareem’s comment has reignited debates around Buhari’s tenure, particularly regarding human rights, economic hardship, insecurity, and the government’s handling of the #EndSARS protests. While many have been offering glowing tributes to the late president, others—particularly among the younger generation—have taken to social media to highlight their grievances about his time in office.
“I think Eedris just said what many people were thinking,” one social media user commented. “You can’t suppress people in life and expect sainthood in death.”
The rapper, long known for using his music and voice to challenge oppressive leadership, famously released the song “Jaga Jaga” in the early 2000s, a blistering critique of corruption and poor governance in Nigeria. The song was banned on national radio at the time and drew strong condemnation from the Buhari-led government.
A Nation Divided on Buhari’s Legacy
Since Buhari’s death, tributes have poured in from leaders across the globe. President Bola Tinubu described him as “a patriot, a soldier, and a statesman.” State governors, senators, traditional rulers, and foreign dignitaries have praised his efforts in fighting corruption and maintaining national stability.
However, some Nigerians remain critical of his leadership style, especially during his civilian presidency between 2015 and 2023. From long medical absences abroad to the controversial response to #EndSARS protests and shrinking civic spaces, Buhari’s legacy continues to polarize opinion.
This sharp divide was on full display online, where DJ Switch—known for live-streaming the #EndSARS crackdown at the Lekki Tollgate—shared a post viewed by many as a direct criticism of the late president. In her words, “Wow! The sweet reality of inevitability. RIP MF. One down.”
Her comment drew rebuke from APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe, who called it “distasteful,” insisting that such reactions to a national leader’s death were disrespectful and unbecoming.
A Timely Warning
In the midst of this growing online backlash, Eedris’s post serves as a philosophical reminder about legacy and accountability. It’s not the first time the rapper has used his platform to call out Nigeria’s leadership and challenge popular narratives.
“Your legacy doesn’t begin at death,” one commenter wrote in support of Eedris’s message. “It’s written by how you treat people when you’re alive.”
Whether intended as a direct comment on Buhari’s passing or a broader reflection on leadership and empathy, Abdulkareem’s post has become one of the most talked-about reactions in the days following the former president’s death.
As tributes continue to pour in and Buhari is laid to rest in Daura, the nation is not only mourning a leader—it is also reflecting deeply on what it means to lead, to serve, and ultimately, how history remembers those who do.
